Saint John (New Brunswick) holidays
Perched on Canada’s east coast, this port city combines a storied past with the sweeping landscapes of the Bay of Fundy and Saint John River. Wander through 19th-century buildings and alleyways that house elegant restaurants, hip breweries and indie boutiques. As the only city on the Bay of Fundy, holidays to Saint John also offer an opportunity to explore the dramatic New Brunswick coastline and connect with nature.
Saint John holiday highlights
DSJ PHOTOGRAPHY
History on display
Uncover Saint John’s past with a tour or museum visit. The Loyalist Trail, Victorian Stroll and Prince William Walk are self-guided tours through the city centre, unravelling stories about early settlers, historic architecture and the Great Fire of Saint John. Learn about the Indigenous Wabanaki people on a guided walk, or head to Kings Landing, a living history museum with a 19th-century village and thousands of artefacts.
Explore the coast
The call of the wild is strong on holidays to Saint John, with activities on the Fundy coast ranging from kayaking and bird-watching to beach swims and ice-skating. Fundy National Park is an hour’s drive away, while Irving Nature Park is only 15 minutes. In Saint John, don’t miss the Reversing Falls, where the Bay of Fundy clashes against the Saint John River.
Where to stay
Uptown Saint John is the cultural hub of the city, home to Canada’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market. Staying here also puts you close to the restored Imperial Theatre, charming Kings Square and various restaurants, shops and bars. Lodging options vary, from chain hotels with river and bay views to cosy boutique stays.
Saint John, New Brunswick: Know before you go
Language
English, French
Currency
Canadian dollar ($)
Time zone
UTC-4 (AST) and UTC-3 (ADT)
High season
July – August
Low season
January – February
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Caption
Photographer name
Things to do in Saint John
DSJ PHOTOGRAPHY
Places to eat
Saint John’s diverse dining scene caters to all palates, but it’s the port city’s fresh seafood that reigns supreme. Visitors flock here for sweet Atlantic lobster, clams and scallops, widely available on menus throughout town. You’ll find some of the city’s most popular eateries clustered in the Uptown district, including the historical Saint John City Market.
Shopping
From records and homewares to outdoor gear and wardrobe staples, the boutiques in Uptown sell whatever you might be in the market for. Refuel at one of the nearby cafes and restaurants, before continuing to browse at the harbourside Market Square. For bigger retail chains, take a 10-minute drive to East Point Shopping, McAllister Place or Lancaster Mall.
Beaches
New Brunswick boasts the warmest saltwater beaches in Canada, with water temperatures of up to 29°C in summer. Nearby Mispec, Bayshore and McLaren’s Beach are beloved by locals for their tranquil waters and stretches of sand. Dominion and Rockwood Park are great family-friendly options for freshwater beaches. You can also cruise up to the Acadian Coast for more idyllic beaches.
FAQs about Saint John, New Brunswick holidays
Most people you meet will likely be speaking English. Picking up some local greetings and phrases can be a good way to break the ice and connect with others during your city break in Saint John, New Brunswick.
Two or three days for a holiday in Saint John, New Brunswick is plenty, but if you’re keen to do the Fundy Coast road trip, camp at Fundy National Park or visit other seaside towns, allow up to a full week.
Although this city is generally considered safe for travellers, the best way to have a worry-free holiday to Saint John, New Brunswick is to follow a few simple precautions. Before you head out, plan your route so you can feel more confident about where you're headed. Be aware of your surroundings as you wander, and make sure your phone is charged in case of emergencies.
Organise your Saint John, New Brunswick trip for January and you'll be there when the weather is at its coolest. -12ºC (10ºF) is as cold as it gets.
With temperatures reaching a high of 23ºC (73ºF), August is the hottest month in Saint John, New Brunswick.
The city’s mix of small-town charm and majestic nature makes it a standout destination for history buffs, outdoor explorers and families. There are daily flights to and from Toronto and Montreal, making it easy to book flights and hotels to Saint John, New Brunswick from most major cities.
You'll be using the Canadian dollar (CAD) while on your trip to Saint John, New Brunswick. Along with your cards, consider having some cash on hand for things like small purchases and public transport fares.
Avoid the summer crowds and icy winter temperatures by planning your trip in April and May or September and October. These off-peak seasons allow you to make the most of the outdoors, with a chance to score better deals on flights and hotels to Saint John, New Brunswick.
With an average rainfall of 16 cm, December is the wettest month to go on a Saint John, New Brunswick holiday. When the drizzle sets in, venture indoors and make the most of the city's art exhibits, cafes, shopping centres and more.
The time of year you visit, how you get there, and where you stay will help influence the price you pay for your city break in Saint John, New Brunswick. If you're looking to cut costs, keep your eyes peeled for special offers or last-minute deals on Saint John flights and hotels. Travelling on weekdays and flying with budget airlines are additional ways to save.
